JP2006285985A - Dvd system for distributing protected content - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a digital versatile disk (DVD) system that communicates with a requester network device over a network. <P>SOLUTION: The digital versatile disk (DVD) system comprises nonvolatile memory that stores content. A control module communicates with the nonvolatile memory, selectively receives requests for content from the requester network device, determines a local/remote status, sends the requested content if the requester network device has a local status, and does not send the requested content if the requester network device has a remote status. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a network, and more particularly to a network system that enables secure distribution of protected content.

  This application is a continuation of US patent application Ser. No. 11 / 085,761, filed Mar. 21, 2005. This application is related to US patent application Ser. No. 11 / 039,288, filed Jan. 19, 2005. The disclosure of the above application is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

  Customers often purchase digital versatile disc (DVD) video content. A DVD player can be used to output video content to a television (TV) or other video monitor. Some DVD players can include a rotating tray to allow one of a plurality of DVDs to be selected and played. In some cases, when a customer wants to watch DVD content on a first TV in a room in the customer's home, the DVD player is located in another room and connected to the second TV in the other room. There may be. As a result, it is necessary to disconnect the DVD player from the second TV, move it to the room with the first TV, and reconnect to the first TV. Alternatively, if the customer has a second DVD player, the customer moves the DVD to the other player.

  One possible solution to this problem involves copying DVD content to another DVD. DVD players usually contain only one DVD player, which makes DVD copying difficult. To copy a DVD, the user must copy the DVD content to the hard drive system. Usually, copy protection schemes such as Digital Rights Management (DRM) block such copies even though some copies may be protected under copyright law. This is due in part to the data being decrypted and / or decrypted by the DVD player, thus becoming unprotected when the data is output to other devices. This solution also requires an additional DVD player.

  A system for distributing content in a network includes a memory for storing the content. A provider network device communicates with this memory. The requester network device requests a copy of the content. The provider network device determines the local / remote status of the requester network device and selectively sends a copy of the content to the requester network device if the requester network device requests the content and has local status.

  In other features, the provider network device includes a digital versatile disc (DVD) system. The requester network device includes a hard disk drive (HDD) system. The provider network device includes a local network determination module that determines the local / remote status of the requester network device. The provider network device determines the local / remote status based on the response time of the requester network device.

  In other features, the server communicates with the provider network device and stores identification data of the local network device. The provider network device determines the local / remote status based on the identification data. The identification data includes the media access control (MAC) address of the local network device.

  In other features, the HDD system comprises non-volatile HDD memory that stores data in a non-volatile manner and includes a user accessible section and a hidden section. A hard disk drive (HDD) control module communicates with the HDD nonvolatile memory, selectively requests content from the provider network device, receives content from the provider network device, and hides the requested content in the nonvolatile HDD memory. Remember in section.

  In other features, after sending the request to the provider network device, the HDD control module receives the key request and sends a key to the provider network device in response to the key request. The requested content received by the HDD system from the provider network device is encrypted using the key. The HDD control module decrypts the requested content. The requested content also includes usage data that is written to a hidden portion of the non-volatile HDD memory, and the HDD control module indicates that the requested content has been exceeded when the usage data indicates that it has exceeded permitted usage. Make it unavailable. The HDD system erases the requested content from the nonvolatile HDD memory. The usage data specifies the permitted number of times of use. The usage data specifies the permitted usage period. The HDD system communicates with the network wirelessly. The HDD system communicates with the network via a wired medium.

  In other features, the DVD system comprises a non-volatile memory that stores content. A DVD control module communicates with the non-volatile memory and selectively receives a request for content from the requester network device. The DVD control module requests a key from the requester network device before transmitting the requested content, and obtains the time required to receive the key from the HDD system after transmitting the key request to the HDD system. If the key is received within a predetermined time period, the DVD system sends the requested content to the HDD system. This predetermined period is approximately equal to a single hop period or a two hop period. The DVD system encrypts the requested content before sending the requested content to the HDD system. The DVD control module includes usage data in the requested content transmitted to the HDD system. The usage data specifies the permitted number of uses. The usage data specifies the permitted usage period.

  A system for distributing content in a network comprises memory means for storing content. Provider network means provides communication with the memory means. A requester network means requests a copy of the content. The provider network means determines the local / remote status of the requester network means, and selectively sends a copy of the content to the requester network means when the requester network means requests the content and has the local status.

  In other features, the provider network means includes a digital versatile disc (DVD) system. The requester network means includes a hard disk drive (HDD) system. The provider network means includes local network determination means for determining the local / remote status of the requester network means. The provider network means determines the local / remote status based on the response time of the requester network means. Server means is responsible for communication with the provider network means and stores identification data for the local network means. The provider network means determines the local / remote status based on the identification data. The identification data includes the media access control (MAC) address of the local network means.

  In other features, the HDD system comprises non-volatile HDD memory means that stores data in a non-volatile manner and includes a user accessible section and a hidden section. Hard disk drive (HDD) control means communicates with the HDD nonvolatile memory means, selectively requests content from the provider network means, receives the content from the provider network means, and requests the requested content from the nonvolatile HDD memory means. Remember in the hidden section. After transmitting the request to the provider network means, the HDD control means receives the key request, and transmits the key to the provider network means in response to the key request. The requested content received by the HDD system from the provider network means is encrypted using the key. The HDD control means decodes the requested content. The requested content also includes usage data that is written to a hidden portion of the non-volatile HDD memory means, and the HDD control means indicates that the requested content indicates that the usage data has exceeded permitted usage. Is unavailable.

  In other features, the HDD system erases the requested content from the non-volatile HDD memory means. The usage data specifies the permitted number of times of use. The usage data specifies the permitted usage period. The HDD system communicates with the network wirelessly. The HDD system communicates with the network via a wired medium.

  In other features, the DVD system comprises non-volatile memory means for storing content. DVD control means communicates with the non-volatile memory means and selectively receives content requests from the requester network means. The DVD control unit requests a key from the requester network unit before transmitting the requested content, and obtains a time required to receive the key from the HDD system after transmitting the key request to the HDD system. When the key is received within a predetermined period, the DVD control means transmits the requested content to the HDD system. This predetermined period is approximately equal to a single hop period or a two hop period. The DVD control means encrypts the requested content before transmitting the requested content to the HDD system. The DVD control means includes usage data in the requested content transmitted to the HDD system. The usage data specifies the permitted number of uses. The usage data specifies the permitted usage period. The DVD system communicates wirelessly with a network. The DVD system communicates with the network via a wired medium.

  Methods for distributing content in a network include storing content in memory, providing a provider network device in communication with the memory, providing a requester network device that requests a copy of the content, local / Determining a remote status and selectively sending a copy of the content to the requester network device when the requester network device requests the content and has a local status.

  In other features, the provider network device includes a digital versatile disc (DVD) system. The requester network device includes a hard disk drive (HDD) system. The method includes determining the local / remote status of the requester network device. The method includes determining local / remote status based on the response time of the requester network device. The method includes storing identification data of the local network device, and the provider network device determines local / remote status based on the identification data. The method includes storing a media access control (MAC) address of the local network device. The method stores data in a nonvolatile manner in a user accessible section and a hidden section of the HDD system, selectively requests content from the provider network device and receives content from the provider network device, and Storing the requested content in a hidden section of non-volatile HDD memory.

  In other features, the method includes receiving a key request and transmitting the request to the provider network device and then transmitting the key to the provider network device in response to the key request. The method includes encrypting the requested content received by the HDD system from the provider network device using a key. The method includes decrypting the requested content. The method writes the requested content including usage data to a hidden portion of the non-volatile HDD memory, and if the usage data indicates that the permitted usage has been exceeded, the requested content is Including making it unavailable.

  In yet another feature, the method includes erasing the requested content from the non-volatile HDD memory. The method includes using the usage data to specify an authorized predetermined number of uses. The method includes using the usage data to specify an allowed usage period. The method includes storing content and selectively receiving a request for content from a requester network device. This method requests the key from the requester network device before sending the requested content and the time required to receive the key from the HDD system after sending this key request to the HDD system. Seeking.

  In other features, the method includes transmitting the requested content to the HDD system if the key is received within a predetermined time period. This predetermined period is approximately equal to a single hop period or a two hop period. The method includes encrypting the requested content before sending the requested content to the HDD system. The method includes transmitting usage data in the requested content to the HDD system. The usage data specifies the permitted number of uses. The usage data specifies the permitted usage period.

  A hard disk drive (HDD) system that communicates with a provider network device over a network includes a non-volatile HDD memory that stores data in a user accessible section and a hidden section in a non-volatile manner. A hard disk drive (HDD) control module communicates with the HDD nonvolatile memory, selectively requests content from the provider network device, receives content from the provider network device, and hides the requested content in the nonvolatile HDD memory. Remember in section.

  In other features, after sending the request to the provider network device, the HDD control module receives the key request and sends a key to the provider network device in response to the key request. The requested content received by the HDD system from the provider network device is encrypted using the key. The HDD control module decrypts the requested content. The requested content also includes usage data that is written to a hidden portion of the non-volatile HDD memory, and the HDD control module indicates that the requested content has been exceeded when the usage data indicates that it has exceeded permitted usage. Make it unavailable. The HDD system erases the requested content from the nonvolatile HDD memory. The usage data specifies the permitted number of times of use. The usage data specifies the permitted usage period. The HDD system communicates with the network wirelessly. The HDD system communicates with a network through a medium.

  In other features, the provider network device includes a digital versatile disc (DVD) system. A network-connected DVD / HDD system includes an HDD system, and further includes a DVD system and a network.

  A hard disk drive (HDD) system that communicates with a provider network device over a network comprises non-volatile memory means for storing data in a user accessible section and a hidden section in a non-volatile manner. Control means communicates with the non-volatile memory means, selectively requests content from the provider network device, receives content from the provider network device, and stores the requested content in a hidden section of the non-volatile memory means.

  After sending the request to the provider network device, the control means receives the key request and sends a key to the provider network device in response to the key request. The requested content received by the system from the provider network device is encrypted using the key. The control means decrypts the requested content. The requested content also includes usage data that is written to a hidden portion of the non-volatile memory means, and the control means utilizes the requested content when the usage data indicates that it has exceeded permitted usage. Make it impossible.

  In other features, the system erases the requested content from the non-volatile memory means. The usage data specifies the permitted number of times of use. The usage data specifies the permitted usage period. The HDD system communicates with the network wirelessly. The HDD system communicates with a network through a medium.

  In other features, the provider network device includes a digital versatile disc (DVD) system. A network-connected DVD / HDD system includes an HDD system, and further includes a DVD system and a network.

  A method of operating a hard disk drive (HDD) system that communicates with a provider network device over a network stores data in a nonvolatile manner in user-accessible sections and hidden sections, and selectively requests content from the provider network device. Receiving content from the provider network device and storing the requested content in a hidden section.

  In other features, the method includes receiving a key request and transmitting the request to the provider network device and then transmitting the key to the provider network device in response to the key request. The method includes encrypting the requested content received by the HDD system from the provider network device using a key. The method includes decrypting the requested content. This method writes the requested content, including usage data, in a hidden portion, and renders the requested content unavailable when the usage data indicates that it has exceeded allowed usage. ,including. The method includes erasing the requested content from the hidden section. The method includes using the usage data to specify an authorized predetermined number of uses. The method includes using the usage data to specify an allowed usage period.

  A digital versatile disc (DVD) system that communicates with a requester network device over a network includes a non-volatile memory that stores content. A control module communicates with the non-volatile memory, selectively receives a request for content from the requester network device, determines local / remote status, and retrieves the requested content if the requester network device has local status. Send and do not send the requested content if the requester network device has a remote status.

  In other features, the control module requests a key from the requester network device before sending the requested content. The control module determines the time required to receive the key from the requester network device after sending this key request. The control module sends the requested content to the requester network device if the key is received within a predetermined period of time. This predetermined period is approximately equal to a single hop period or a two hop period. The control module encrypts the requested content before sending the requested content to the requester network device. The control module includes usage data in the requested content that is sent to the requester network device. The usage data specifies the permitted number of uses. The usage data specifies the permitted usage period. The DVD system communicates wirelessly with a network. A DVD system communicates with a network by a medium.

  In other features, the requester network device includes a hard disk drive (HDD) system. A network-connected DVD / HDD system includes a DVD system, and further includes an HDD system and a network.

  A digital versatile disc (DVD) system that communicates with a hard requester network device over a network comprises non-volatile memory means for storing content. Control means communicates with the non-volatile memory means, selectively receives a request for content from the requester network device, determines local / remote status, and the requested content if the requester network device has local status And the requested content is not sent if the requester network device has a remote status.

  In other features, the control means requests a key from the requester network device before sending the requested content. The control means obtains the time required to receive the key from the requester network device after transmitting this key request. The control means transmits the requested content to the requester network device when the key is received within a predetermined period. This predetermined period is approximately equal to the two-hop period. This predetermined period is approximately equal to the single hop period. The control means encrypts the requested content before sending the requested content to the requester network device. The control means includes usage data in the requested content transmitted to the requester network device. The usage data specifies the permitted number of uses. The usage data specifies the permitted usage period. The control means communicates with the network wirelessly. A DVD system communicates with a network by a medium.

  In other features, the requester network device includes a hard disk drive (HDD) system. A network-connected DVD / HDD system includes a DVD system, and further includes an HDD system and a network.

  A method of operating a digital versatile disk (DVD) system that communicates with a hard requester network device over a network includes storing content in non-volatile memory, selectively receiving a request for content from the requester network device, local / Determining a remote status; transmitting the requested content if the requester network device has a local status; and not transmitting the requested content if the requester network device has a remote status. Including.

  In other features, the method includes requesting a key from the requester network device prior to transmitting the requested content. The method includes determining the time required to receive the key from the requester network device after sending this key request. The method includes transmitting the requested content to the requester network device if the key is received within a predetermined time period. The method includes setting this predetermined period approximately equal to a two hop period. The method includes setting this predetermined period approximately equal to a single hop period. The method includes encrypting the requested content before sending the requested content to the requester network device. The method includes including usage data in the requested content sent to the requester network device. The usage data specifies the permitted number of uses. The usage data specifies the permitted usage period.

  A system for distributing content in a network includes a memory that stores the content and a provider network device that communicates with the memory. A media server communicates with the provider network device. The requester network device requests a copy of the content. The media server determines the local / remote status of the requester network device, and if the requester network device requests content and has a local status, the provider network device sends a copy of the content to the requester network device. Enable selectively.

  In other features, the provider network device includes a digital versatile disc (DVD) system. The requester network device includes a hard disk drive (HDD) system. The media server includes a local network determination module that determines the local / remote status of the requester network device. The media server determines the local / remote status based on the response time of the requester network device.

  In other features, the server communicates with the media server and stores identification data of the local network device. The media server determines the local / remote status based on this identification data. Alternatively, the media server stores identification data of the local network device and determines the local / remote status based on the identification data. The identification data includes the media access control (MAC) address of the local network device.

  In other features, the HDD system comprises non-volatile HDD memory that stores data in a non-volatile manner and includes a user accessible section and a hidden section. A hard disk drive (HDD) control module communicates with the HDD non-volatile memory, selectively requests content from the media server, receives content from at least one of the provider network device and / or media server, and is requested. The stored content is stored in a hidden section of the nonvolatile HDD memory. After sending the request to the media server, the HDD control module receives the key request and sends a key to at least one of the media server and / or the provider network device in response to the key request. The requested content received by the HDD system from at least one of the provider network device and / or the media server is encrypted using the key. The HDD control module decrypts the requested content. The requested content also includes usage data that is written to a hidden portion of the non-volatile HDD memory. The HDD control module disables the requested content when the usage data indicates that the permitted usage has been exceeded. The HDD system erases the requested content from the nonvolatile HDD memory. The usage data specifies the permitted number of times of use. The usage data specifies the permitted usage period. The HDD system communicates with the network wirelessly. The HDD system communicates with the network via a wired medium.

  The DVD system includes a nonvolatile memory for storing content. A DVD control module communicates with the non-volatile memory and selectively receives a request for content from at least one of the requester network device and / or the media server. The media server requests a key from the requester network device before sending the requested content, and obtains the time required to receive the key from the HDD system after sending this key request to the HDD system. If the key is received within a predetermined time period, the media server allows the DVD system to send the requested content to at least one of the HDD system and / or the media server. This predetermined period is approximately equal to the two-hop period. This predetermined period is approximately equal to the single hop period.

  In other features, at least one of the DVD system and / or the media server encrypts the requested content before sending the requested content to the HDD system. At least one of the DVD control module and / or the media server includes usage data in the requested content that is sent to the HDD system. The usage data specifies the permitted number of uses. The usage data specifies the permitted usage period. The DVD system communicates wirelessly with a network. The DVD system communicates with the network via a wired medium.

  A system for distributing content in a network comprises memory means for storing content. Provider network means provides communication with the memory means. Media serving means is responsible for communication with provider network means. A requester network means requests a copy of the content. The media serving means determines the local / remote status of the requester network means, and if the requester network means requests content and has local status, the provider network means sends a copy of the content to the requester network means. To make it possible selectively.

  In other features, the provider network means includes a digital versatile disc (DVD) system. The requester network means includes a hard disk drive (HDD) system. The media serving means includes local network determining means for determining the local / remote status of the requester network means. The media serving means determines the local / remote status based on the response time of the requester network means. Server means is responsible for communication with the provider network means and stores identification data for the local network means. The media serving means determines the local / remote status based on the identification data. Alternatively, the media serving means stores identification data of the local network means. The identification data includes the media access control (MAC) address of the local network means.

  In other features, the HDD system comprises non-volatile HDD memory means that stores data in a non-volatile manner and includes a user accessible section and a hidden section. Hard disk drive (HDD) control means communicates with the HDD nonvolatile memory means, selectively requests content from the media serving means, receives content from the media serving means, and sends the requested content to the nonvolatile HDD memory. Store in the hidden section of the instrument. After sending the request to the media serving means, the HDD control means receives the key request and sends a key to at least one of the provider network means and / or the media serving means in response to the key request. The requested content received by the HDD system from at least one of the provider network means and / or the media serving means is encrypted using the key. The HDD control means decodes the requested content. The requested content also includes usage data that is written to a hidden portion of the non-volatile HDD memory means, and the HDD control means indicates that the requested content indicates that the usage data has exceeded permitted usage. Is unavailable. The HDD system erases the requested content from the nonvolatile HDD memory means. The usage data specifies the permitted number of times of use. The usage data specifies the permitted usage period. The HDD system communicates with the network wirelessly. The HDD system communicates with the network via a wired medium.

  In other features, the DVD system comprises non-volatile memory means for storing content and DVD control means for communicating with the non-volatile memory means and selectively receiving requests for content from the media serving means. The media serving unit requests a key from the requester network unit before transmitting the requested content, and obtains a time required to receive the key from the HDD system after transmitting the key request to the HDD system. If the key is received within a predetermined period, at least one of the DVD control means and / or the media serving means transmits the requested content to the HDD system. This predetermined period is approximately equal to the two-hop period. This predetermined period is approximately equal to the single hop period. At least one of the DVD control means and / or the media serving means encrypts the requested content before sending the requested content to the HDD system. At least one of the DVD control means and / or the media serving means includes usage data in the requested content transmitted to the HDD system. The usage data specifies the permitted number of uses. The usage data specifies the permitted usage period. The DVD system communicates wirelessly with a network. The DVD system communicates with the network via a wired medium.

  A method for distributing content in a network includes storing content in memory, providing a provider network device in communication with the memory, providing a media serving device in communication with the provider network device, and requesting a copy of the content Providing a requester network device, determining a local / remote status of the requester network device using a media serving device, and requesting content and having a local status if the requester network device has local status. Selectively sending a copy to the requester network device.

  In other features, the provider network device includes a digital versatile disc (DVD) system. The requester network device includes a hard disk drive (HDD) system. The method includes determining the local / remote status of the requester network device. The method includes determining local / remote status based on the response time of the requester network device. The method includes storing identification data of the local network device. The media serving device determines the local / remote status based on this identification data. The method includes storing a media access control (MAC) address of the local network device.

  In other features, the method stores data in a nonvolatile manner in a user accessible section and a hidden section of the HDD system, selectively requests content from the provider network device via the media serving device. Receiving content from the provider network device and storing the requested content in a hidden section of the non-volatile HDD memory.

  In other features, the method includes receiving a key request and transmitting the request to the media serving device and then transmitting the key to the media serving device in response to the key request. The method includes encrypting the requested content received by the HDD system from at least one of the provider network device and / or the media serving device using a key. The method includes decrypting the requested content. The method writes the requested content including usage data to a hidden portion of the non-volatile HDD memory, and if the usage data indicates that the permitted usage has been exceeded, the requested content is Including making it unavailable.

  In other features, the method includes erasing the requested content from the non-volatile HDD memory. The method includes using the usage data to specify an authorized predetermined number of uses. The method includes using the usage data to specify an allowed usage period.

  The method includes storing content at a provider network device and selectively receiving a request for content from a requester network device via a media serving device. This method requests the key from the requester network device before sending the requested content and the time required to receive the key from the HDD system after sending this key request to the HDD system. Seeking. The method includes transmitting the requested content to the HDD system if the key is received within a predetermined time period. This predetermined period is approximately equal to the two-hop period. This predetermined period is approximately equal to the single hop period. The method includes encrypting the requested content before sending the requested content to the HDD system. The method includes transmitting usage data in the requested content to the HDD system. The usage data specifies the permitted number of uses. The usage data specifies the permitted usage period.

  Further fields of application of the present invention will become apparent from the best mode for carrying out the invention provided below. The best mode for carrying out the invention and specific examples show preferred embodiments of the present invention, but are merely for the purpose of illustration and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. It should be understood.

  The present invention will be more fully understood from the best mode for carrying out the invention and the accompanying drawings.

  The following description of the preferred embodiment (s) is merely exemplary in nature and is in no way intended to limit the invention, its application, or uses. As used herein, the term module or device refers to an application-specific integration that executes one or more software or firmware programs, combinational logic, and / or other suitable components that provide the functions described. Refers to circuit (ASIC), electronic circuit, processor (shared, dedicated, or group), and memory. For purposes of clarity, the same reference numbers will be used in the drawings to identify similar elements.

  Referring now to FIG. 1, the local network 2 includes a router 3, a modem 4, and a provider network device 5. This provider network device 5 selectively supplies protected content 6 to one or more local requester network devices, as will be described below. The provider network device 5 is a network compatible device including the local network determination module 7. One or more requester network devices 8-1, 8-2,... And 8 -N (collectively referred to as requester 8) selectively request a copy of protected content 6. For clarity, the router 3 and wireline connections are shown, but other network configurations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Other network configurations include, but are not limited to, a wireless access point (AP), an ad hoc network connection configuration, and / or a wireless network configuration. Although the provider network device 5 is shown as including a memory such as a non-volatile memory for the protected content 6, the protected content 6 can be stored inside and / or outside of the provider network device 5.

  The modem 4 is connected to the broadband service provider 9. The broadband support provider 9 provides video content, digital content, a broadband connection to a distributed communication system (DCS) 10 and / or other network services. The service provider 9 can provide broadband access using a wired or wireless connection, coaxial cable, digital subscriber line (DSL), satellite, and / or any other connection system or connection method.

  The DCS 10 includes network devices 12-11, 12-12,..., 12-1P, 12-21, 12-22 by one or more servers 11-1, 11-2,. , ..., 12-2P, ..., and 12-M1, 12-M2, ..., 12-MP (collectively referred to as network device 12). When the requester network device requests a copy of the protected content 6, the local network determination module 7 selectively determines whether the requester network device has a local status or a remote status. This approach increases security by preventing access to protected content by remote network devices.

  There are many different ways for the local network determination module 7 to determine the local / remote status of the requester network device. For example, in some implementations, the provider network device 5 determines the local / remote status by determining the time required to receive a response from the requester network device. If the response time is less than the predetermined period, the requester network device is determined to have a local status. If the response time is greater than the predetermined period, the requester network device has a remote status and the copy of the protected content is rejected. The time required to send and receive data to the remote network device 12 via the service provider 9, DCS 10, and server 11 is much greater than the time required for the local requester network device to respond. In other words, the predetermined period is set larger than the response time required by the local requester network device and smaller than the response time required by the remote requester network device.

  In other embodiments, the provider network device checks the DHCP table of the dynamic host configuration protocol (DHCP) server to determine the media access control (MAC) address of the local network device. If the requester network device matches the local MAC address in its table, the requester network device has a local status and can send a copy of the protected content. If not, the requester network device has a remote status and no copy of the protected content is sent.

  In yet another embodiment, the provider network device 5 can send a message to the router 3 to temporarily block the external port of the router 3 or modem 4 to the service provider 9 (and DCS 10). After blocking the external port, the provider network device 5 determines whether the requester network device is still able to communicate (this determination is true if the requester network device has a local status). If the provider network device can communicate with the requesting network device, the provider network device sends the copy protected content. One or more of these techniques can be combined and / or other techniques can be used to determine the local / remote status of the requester network device, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art. You can also.

  The following description uses a DVD system and / or DVD / HDD combination system as a provider network device and another network device including a DVD / HDD combination system and / or HDD system as a requester network device. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other provider network devices and / or requester network devices may be used. Those skilled in the art will also appreciate that all of the embodiments described below with DVD and HDD systems can be implemented with any other suitable network device.

  Referring now to FIG. 2, a functional block diagram of a first exemplary DVD and HDD system connected via a network is shown. The local network 13 includes a modem 14 that communicates with a service provider 18 via a medium 16. Service provider 18 provides a connection to a distributed communication system (DCS) 22 such as the Internet, LAN, WAN, other distributed networks, and / or provides other network services such as video content, telephone services, and the like. The modem 14 can be connected to the router 28. The router 28 connects a plurality of network devices 30-1, 30-2,..., And 30 -N (collectively network devices 30) to the modem 14. One of the network devices 30-1 is connected to a hard disk drive (HDD) system 34. The HDD system 34 can be connected to a television or monitor 38. The television or monitor 38 can also be connected to the medium 16 directly or through a set top box (not shown) and can receive content from the service provider 18.

  The local network 13 includes a router 28 and an access point (AP) 40 that communicates with one or more wireless stations 42-1, 42-2, ..., and 42-N (collectively wireless stations 42). be able to. Although the AP 40 is shown as connected to the router 28, the AP functionality and the router functionality can be combined into a single device. Alternatively, the combined AP / router can be connected directly to the modem 14. Still other types of network configurations and connections will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

  Network device 30-2 communicates with router 28 and is a DVD player or combined DVD / HDD player such as that shown and described in US patent application Ser. No. 11 / 039,288 filed Jan. 19, 2005. 44 (hereinafter referred to as “DVD player 44”). This US patent application is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. The DVD player 44 can then communicate with the television or monitor 46. A television or monitor 46 can be connected to the media 16 or the set top box 50. Service provider 18 provides broadband access to DCS 22, video content, and / or other services. One or more other servers 54-1 and 54-2 (collectively server 54) provide the DCS 22 with interfaces such as network device 60, computer 62, personal digital assistant (PDA), and the like.

  In some implementations, a user of the television or monitor 38 may wish to access DVD content associated with the DVD player 44. First, the HDD 34 can request a list of available contents from the DVD player. The DVD player sends a list of available content. The HDD 34 transmits a message requesting a copy of the content selected from the list to the DVD player 44 via the network. The DVD system determines whether the HDD system has a local status. If the HDD system or other requester network device has a local status, the content file is transmitted. If the HDD system or other requester network device has a remote status, the request is rejected. The determination of the local / remote status can be made based on response time, DHCP table MAC address, external port disconnection and corresponding dialog, and / or other suitable methods.

  In some implementations, the DVD player 44 responds by requesting a key from the HDD 34. The DVD player 44 starts a timer that calculates the time required for the HDD 34 to respond. The HDD 34 transmits the requested key to the DVD player 44. The DVD player 44 determines whether the HDD 34 has responded within a predetermined time.

  When the HDD 34 responds within a predetermined time, the DVD player 44 scrambles the selected content with the key, and transmits the scrambled content to the HDD 34 via the network. The HDD 34 descrambles the content with the key, and enables the content to be reproduced on the television or the monitor 38. As can be appreciated, the key exchange can also occur early when the HDD first requests available content.

  The HDD 34 can also receive usage data from a DVD player whose use is restricted. For example, this usage data can allow N playbacks and / or playback during a predetermined period of time. After the permitted usage period, as specified in the usage data, elapses, the HDD 34 makes the video content unavailable. For example, the HDD may erase video content.

  In some implementations, the HDD 34 includes a user accessible section and a hidden section. Video content from the DVD player 44 is stored in a hidden section of the DVD player 44. The key provided by HDD 34 can be part of a public / private key encryption system and / or other suitable data encryption. Alternatively, other forms of key-based scrambling can be performed.

  When the DVD player is a single DVD player, the DVD player transmits a list of contents available on the DVD of the DVD player. If the DVD player includes a rotating tray, the DVD player sends a list of DVD content available from the rotating tray DVD. If the DVD player is a combined DVD / HDD player, the DVD / HDD player sends a list of DVD content available on the player's DVD or DVDs along with the DVD content stored in the associated HDD.

  With reference now to FIGS. 3-5, various exemplary configurations of the present invention are shown. In these embodiments, the provider network device includes a DVD system and / or a DVD / HDD combination system, and the requester network device includes an HDD system and / or a DVD / HDD combination system. In FIG. 3, the HDD 34 is connected to the network by a station 42-1. The station 42-1 performs wireless communication with the AP 40. The DVD player 44 and the television 46 are connected to the router 28 by the network device 30-2 and the medium 16. In FIG. 4, the HDD 34 is connected to the router 28 by the network device 30-1 and the medium 16. The DVD player 44 is connected to the network by a station 42-2. The station 42-2 performs wireless communication with the AP 40. In FIG. 5, the HDD 34 and the DVD player 44 are connected to the network by one or more stations 42-1 and / or 42-2. Various other network configurations will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

  Referring now to FIG. 6, an exemplary requester network device includes an HDD system 110 having an HDD PCB 114. The buffer 118 stores read data, write data, and / or volatile control data related to the control of the HDD system 110. Buffer 118 typically uses volatile memory with low latency. For example, SDRAM or other types of low latency memory can be used. A non-volatile memory 119 such as a flash memory can also be provided for storing important data such as a non-volatile control code.

  The processor 122 arranged in the HDD PCB 114 executes data processing and / or control processing related to the operation of the HDD system 110. A hard disk control module (HDC) 126 communicates with an input / output interface 124 and a spindle / voice coil motor (VCM) driver or module 130 and / or a read / write channel module 134. . The HDC 126 coordinates the control of data input / output with the host 135 via the spindle / VCM driver 130, the read / write channel module 134, the processor 122, and the interface 124.

  During a write operation, read / write channel module 134 encodes data to be written to read / write device 159. The read / write channel module 134 processes the write signal for reliability and can apply, for example, error correction coding (ECC), run length limited coding (RLL), and the like. During a read operation, the read / write channel module 134 converts the analog read signal output of the read / write device 159 into a digital read signal. The converted signal is then detected and decoded by known techniques to recover the data written to the HDD.

  A hard disk drive assembly (HDDA) 150 includes one or more hard drive platters 152. The hard drive platter 152 includes a magnetic coating that stores a magnetic field. The platter 152 is rotated by a spindle motor shown schematically at 154. In general, the spindle motor 154 rotates the hard drive platter 152 at a controlled speed during read / write operations. One or more read / write arms 158 move relative to the platter 152 to read data from and / or write data to the hard drive platter 152. The spindle / VCM driver 130 controls the spindle motor 154. The spindle motor 154 rotates the platter 152. The spindle / VCM driver 130 also generates control signals that position the read / write arm 158 using, for example, a voice coil actuator, a stepper motor, or any other suitable actuator.

  Read / write device 159 is disposed near the distal end of read / write arm 158. The read / write device 159 includes a write element such as an inductor that generates a magnetic field. The read / write device 159 also includes a read element (such as a magnetoresistive (MR) element) that detects the magnetic field of the platter 152. The HDDA 150 includes a preamplifier circuit 160 that amplifies an analog read / write signal. At the time of reading data, the preamplifier circuit 160 amplifies the low level signal from the read element and outputs the amplified signal to the read / write channel module 134. When writing data, a write current flowing through the write element of the read / write device 159 is generated. This write current is switched to generate a magnetic field having a positive polarity or a negative polarity. The positive or negative polarity is stored by the hard drive platter 152 and used to represent the data.

  With reference now to FIGS. 7A and 7B, an exemplary provider network device includes a DVD system 210. The DVD PCB 214 includes a buffer 218. The buffer 218 includes read data, write data, and / or volatile control code associated with controlling the DVD system 210. Buffer 218 may use volatile memory such as SDRAM or other types of low latency memory. A non-volatile memory 219 such as a flash memory can also be used for important data such as data relating to the DVD writing format and / or other non-volatile control codes. The processor 222 disposed on the DVD PCB 214 performs data processing and / or control processing related to the operation of the DVD system 210. The processor 222 also performs copy protection decryption and / or compression / decompression as necessary. DVD control module 226 communicates with input / output interface 224 and spindle / feed motor (FM) driver 230 and / or read / write channel module 234. The DVD control module 226 coordinates control of data input / output via the spindle / FM driver, the read / write channel module 234, the processor 222, and the interface 224.

  During a write operation, the read / write channel module 234 encodes data that is written to the DVD platter by an optical read / write (ORW) device or an optical read-only (OR) device 259. The read / write channel module 234 processes the signal for reliability and can apply, for example, ECC, RLL, etc. During a read operation, the read / write channel module 234 converts the analog output of the ORW device or OR device 259 into a digital signal. The converted signal is then detected and decoded by known techniques to recover the data written on the DVD.

  The DVD assembly (DVDA) 250 includes a DVD platter 252 that optically stores data. The platter 252 is rotated by a spindle motor shown schematically at 254. Spindle motor 254 rotates DVD platter 252 at a controlled speed and / or variable speed during read / write operations. The ORW device or OR device 259 moves relative to the DVD platter 252 to read data from the DVD platter 252 and / or write data to the DVD platter 252. The ORW device or OR device 259 typically includes a laser and an optical sensor.

  In DVD read / write systems and DVD read-only systems, the laser is directed to tracks on the DVD including lands and pits during read operations. The optical sensor detects reflections caused by lands / pits. In some read / write (RW) applications, a laser may also be used to overheat the die layer of a DVD platter during a write operation. When the die is overheated to a certain temperature, the die becomes transparent and represents a certain binary value. When the die is overheated to another temperature, the die becomes opaque and represents another binary value. Other techniques for writing DVDs can also be used.

  The spindle / FM driver 230 controls the spindle motor 254. The spindle motor 254 rotates the DVD platter 252 in a controllable manner. The spindle / FM driver 230 also generates a control signal that positions the feed motor 258 using, for example, a voice coil actuator, a stepper motor, or any other suitable actuator. The feed motor 258 typically moves the ORW device or OR device 259 in the radial direction relative to the DVD platter 252. The laser driver 261 generates a laser drive signal based on the output of the read / write channel module 234. The DVDA 250 includes a preamplifier circuit 260 that amplifies the analog read signal. At the time of reading data, the preamplifier circuit 260 amplifies the low level signal from the ORW device or the OR device and outputs the amplified signal to the read / write channel module device 234.

  The DVD system 210 further includes a codec module 240. The codec module 240 encodes and / or decodes video such as any of the MPEG formats. The audio digital signal processor and / or module 242 and / or the video digital signal processor and / or module 244 perform audio signal processing and / or video signal processing, respectively.

  Similar to HDD system 110, portions of DVD system 210 may be implemented by one or more integrated circuits (ICs) or chips. For example, the processor 222 and the DVD control module 226 can be implemented by a single chip. The spindle / FM driver 230 and / or the read / write channel module 234 can also be implemented by the same chip as the processor 222, the DVD control module 226, and / or by an added chip. Also, most DVD systems 210 other than DVDA 250 can be implemented as SOC.

  Referring now to FIG. 7C, a simplified functional block diagram of an exemplary DVD / HDD combination system 280 is shown in accordance with some embodiments of the present invention. This DVD / HDD combination system can be used as a provider network device or a requester network device. DVD / HDD combination system 280 includes a combination system control module 284 that communicates with non-volatile memory 290 and volatile memory 292. These memories store data for both DVD and HDD operations. System control module 284 communicates with interface 296 of host 298 via interface 294. In some implementations, interfaces 294 and 296 are serial ATA interfaces, Fiber Channel (FC), serial attached small computer system interfaces (SAS), or other suitable interfaces.

  The DVD / HDD combination system controls both the DVD system and the HDD system. DVD / HDD systems reduce the overall system cost and provide improved functionality and performance. Costs are reduced through the use of a single DRAM and flash memory for both DVD and HDD data storage. A single power supply is required and a reduction in the number of external connections is required, thereby further reducing costs.

  In addition, the DVD / HDD integrated system makes it possible to copy copy-protected content directly to the HDD bit by bit. In other words, copy-protected content can be copied without deciphering the copy protection scheme or digital rights management (DRM), and without requiring significant operating system involvement. Conventional separate DVD and HDD systems require the DVD to decrypt / decrypt DRM or other copy protection before output. DRM or other copy protection may or may not allow subsequent copying to the HDD. By combining the systems, DRM or copy protection remains intact, so additional functionality is provided due to the built-in copy protection or DRM security. For example, a single DVD drive copy operation is supported without removing copy protection or DRM. In addition, the HDD can also operate as a virtual DVD changer. Yet another variation of the DVD / HDD combination system is illustrated and described in US patent application Ser. No. 11 / 039,288, filed Jan. 19, 2005.

  Referring now to FIG. 8, it is shown that the HDD non-volatile memory 300 is partitioned into a user accessible area and a hidden area according to some embodiments. The non-volatile memory 300 of the HDD is allocated to a first part 304 that is user accessible and a second part 308 that is not accessible (ie, hidden) by the user. The second hidden portion 308 is used in one or more of the following methods according to some embodiments of the present invention. The hidden portion 308 is used to store the content of the DVD being copied. In addition, the hidden portion 308 of the HDD is also used to provide a virtual DVD carousel. In other words, a plurality of DVDs can be copied to the HDD and played back at a later date.

  Referring now to FIG. 9A, the steps performed by the network device are shown. Control begins at step 350. In step 352, control determines whether the provider network device has received a request to copy protected content. If not, control returns to step 352. If step 352 is true, control determines in step 354 whether the requester network device is located in the local network. If step 354 is false, control rejects the request and returns to step 352. If step 354 is true, the provider network device sends a copy of the protected content to the requester network device.

  The provider network device determines in any suitable manner whether the requester network device is present in the local network. For example, the response time of the requester network device can be compared to a predetermined threshold. In another embodiment, the provider network device temporarily requests to block the external port of the router or modem so that the local / remote status of the requester network device can be verified before the file is sent. be able to. In other implementations, the local server can be queried to determine the local network device. Still other methods for determining local / remote status may be used.

  Referring now to FIG. 9B, steps for determining local / remote status by temporarily blocking external ports are shown. Control begins at step 360. In step 362, control determines whether the provider network device has received a request for a copy protected file. If step 362 is false, control returns to step 362. If step 362 is true, control continues to step 364 where the provider network device requests to block the external port of the router or modem. In step 368, the provider network device determines whether the requester network device has a local status. For example, the provider network device can send a message to the requester network device and wait for a response. If step 368 is false, the provider network device rejects the request and control returns to step 362. If step 368 is true, the provider network device sends a copy of the file to the requester network device in step 370. The provider network device unblocks the external connection or port of the router or modem at step 374.

  Referring now to FIG. 9C, steps for examining a local server (such as a DHCP server) to determine local / remote status are shown. Control begins at step 380. In step 382, control determines whether the provider network device has received a request for a copy protected file. If step 382 is false, control returns to step 382. If step 382 is true, control continues to step 384, where the provider network device queries the server to obtain identification information for the local network device. This identification information can include a MAC address. However, other types of identification information can be used. In step 386, the provider network device determines whether the requester network device has a local status. If step 386 is false, the provider network device rejects the request and control returns to step 382. If step 386 is true, the provider network device sends a copy of the file to the requester network device in step 388.

  Referring now to FIG. 9D, the steps performed by the network system are indicated generally at 400. In step 402, control begins. In step 404, the provider network device determines whether the requester network device is requesting a copy of the content. If it is determined that no request has been made, control returns to step 404. If so, control continues to step 408, where the provider network device requests a key from the requester network device. In step 412, the provider network device starts a timer.

  In step 416, the provider network device determines whether a key has been received. If the key has not been received and (in some embodiments) the predetermined period has not been exceeded, control continues to step 416. Otherwise, control continues to step 420 and the provider network device stops the timer. In step 422, control determines whether the timer is shorter than a predetermined period.

  In some implementations, the predetermined period is less than or equal to the time required for the packet to travel one or two hops. Additional security is provided by limiting response time. The time required for a computer or other device outside the home network to respond exceeds this predetermined period. In other words, a packet containing a key from a computer such as the computer 62 connected outside the home network or another network device such as the network device 60 exceeds one or two hops. This is due to the time required to pass through the modem and service provider.

  If step 422 is false, control returns to step 404. If step 422 is true, the provider network device encrypts or scrambles the content with the key in step 426 and sends the encrypted or scrambled content over the network to the requesting device; followed by.

Referring now to FIG. 10, method steps for authorizing N playbacks of copy protected files from a requester network device are shown. Control begins at step 600. In step 602, control determines whether a copy protected file is stored on the requester network device. If it is determined that it is not stored, control returns to step 602. If step 602 is true, control sets N = 1 for the file in step 604. In step 606, control determines whether the copy protected file stored on the requester network device has been played. If step 606 is false, control returns to step 606. If step 606 is true, control increments N at step 610. In step 614, control determines whether N = N _max . If step 614 is false, control returns to step 606. If step 614 is true, control erases the copy-protected file or otherwise makes the file unavailable from the requester network device in step 618 and control returns to step 602.

  Referring now to FIG. 11, method steps for limiting the amount of time a copy-protected file stored on a requester network device can be played are shown. Control begins at step 640. In step 644, control determines whether a copy protected file is stored on the requester network device. If step 644 is false, control returns to step 644. If step 644 is true, control continues to step 646 and sets a timer. In step 648, control determines whether the timer has expired. If step 648 is false, control returns to step 648. If step 648 is true, control erases the copy protected file from the requester network device in step 652 and control continues to step 644. Although a timer has been described, any usage measurement and / or comparison can be made. For example, a date and / or time stamp can be used to compare with the current date and / or time. Still other types of usage data will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

  Referring now to FIG. 12A, the media server 700 can be used to provide protected content from the provider 702 to the requester 704. Although a router is shown as connecting the media server 700, provider 702, and requester 704, other network configurations and connections such as ad hoc network mode, peer-to-peer mode, and other techniques may also be used. It is not limited to. In some implementations, the media server includes a local / remote status determination module 701 as described above. The media server 700 provides a list of available content to the requester 704. Requester 704 requests content. The media server 700 confirms that the requester exists in the local network by any of the methods described above. If the requester 704 is in the local network, the media server 700 requests content from the provider 702. The provider 702 transmits the content directly to the requester 704 or transmits it to the media server 700. The media server 700 transmits the content to the requester 704.

  Next, referring to FIGS. 12B and 13, the media server 700 supplies the protected content from the DVD system 710 to the HDD system 712. The DVD system 710 and the HDD system 712 can be implemented as described in the above embodiments. In FIG. 13, the media server 700 can be implemented in a network as shown. Other network configurations such as the network configurations described herein, as well as other network configurations, can be considered. The media server can be connected to the network in a wired or wireless format.

  Referring now to FIG. 14, a flowchart illustrating the steps performed by the media server according to the present invention is shown. Control begins at step 720. In step 722, control determines whether the server has received a request to copy a protected file from the requester. If step 722 is false, control returns to step 722. If step 722 is true, the media server determines whether the requester has local status. The local status of the requester can be determined by any of the methods described above. If true, the server requests the file from the provider and sends the file to the requester. Alternatively, the provider can send the file directly to the requester.

  Those skilled in the art can now appreciate from the foregoing description that the broad teachings of the present invention can be implemented in a variety of forms. Thus, while the invention has been described with reference to specific examples thereof, other modifications will become apparent to one skilled in the art upon review of the drawings, specification, and appended claims. The scope of should not be so limited.

FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of a provider network device that provides digitally protected content to one or more requester network devices in a local network. 1 is a functional block diagram of a first networked DVD and HDD system according to the present invention that communicates with a modem. FIG. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram of a second example networked DVD and HDD system in accordance with the present invention that communicates with a modem. FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of a third exemplary networked DVD and HDD system in accordance with the present invention that communicates with a modem. FIG. 6 is a functional block diagram of a fourth exemplary DVD and HDD system networked according to the present invention that communicates with a modem. 1 is a functional block diagram of an exemplary requester network device that includes an HDD system. FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of an example provider network device that includes a DVD system having read-only operations. FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of an example provider network device that includes a DVD system having read-write operations. FIG. 1 is a functional block diagram of a provider network device or a requester network device including a DVD / HDD combined system. The figure which shows the user accessible section and hidden section of the non-volatile memory of HDD of FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating security steps performed by a provider network device and / or a requester network device. 6 is a flowchart illustrating security steps performed by a provider network device and / or a requester network device. 6 is a flowchart illustrating security steps performed by a provider network device and / or a requester network device. 6 is a flowchart illustrating security steps performed by a provider network device and / or a requester network device. 6 is a flowchart illustrating method steps for authorizing N playbacks of copy protected files from a requester network device. 6 is a flowchart illustrating method steps for limiting the amount of time a copy protected file stored on a requester network device can be played. 1 is a functional block diagram of a network including a media server that supplies protected content from a provider to a requester. 1 is a functional block diagram of a network including a media server that supplies protected content from a DVD system to an HDD system. The figure which shows the media server in an example network structure. 6 is a flowchart illustrating steps performed by a media server according to the present invention.

Claims (38)

A digital versatile disc (DVD) system that communicates with a requester network device over a network,
Non-volatile memory for storing content;
Communicating with the non-volatile memory, selectively receiving a request for content from the requester network device, determining a local / remote status, and if the requester network device has a local status, the requested content is A control module that transmits and does not transmit the requested content if the requester network device has a remote status;
A DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network.   The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 1, wherein the control module requests a key from the requester network device before transmitting the requested content.   3. The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 2, wherein the control module determines a time required to receive the key from the requester network device after transmitting the key request.   4. The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 3, wherein the control module transmits the requested content to the requester network device when the key is received within a predetermined period of time. .   5. The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 4, wherein the predetermined period is approximately equal to a two-hop period.   5. The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 4, wherein the predetermined period is approximately equal to a single hop period.   5. The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 4, wherein the control module encrypts the requested content before transmitting the requested content to the requester network device.   The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 1, wherein the control module includes usage data in the requested content transmitted to the requester network device.   9. The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 8, wherein the usage data specifies a permitted number of uses.   9. The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 8, wherein the usage data specifies a permitted usage period.   The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 1, wherein the DVD system communicates with the network wirelessly.   The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 1, wherein the system communicates with the network over a medium.   The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 1, wherein the requester network device comprises a hard disk drive (HDD) system.   14. A network-connected DVD / HDD system comprising the DVD system according to claim 13, and further comprising the HDD system and the network. A digital versatile disc (DVD) system that communicates with a requester network device over a network,
Non-volatile memory means for storing content;
Communicating with the non-volatile memory, selectively receiving a request for content from the requester network device, determining a local / remote status, and if the requester network device has a local status, the requested content is Control means for transmitting and not transmitting said requested content if said requester network device has a remote status;
A DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network.   16. The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 15, wherein the control means requests a key from the requester network device before transmitting the requested content.   17. The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 16, wherein the control means obtains a time required to receive the key from the requester network device after transmitting the key request.   18. The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 17, wherein the control means transmits the requested content to the requester network device when the key is received within a predetermined period of time. .   19. The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 18, wherein the predetermined period is approximately equal to a two-hop period.   19. The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 18, wherein the predetermined period is approximately equal to a single hop period.   19. The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 18, wherein the control means encrypts the requested content before transmitting the requested content to the requester network device.   16. The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 15, wherein the control means includes usage data in the requested content transmitted to the requester network device.   23. A DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 22, wherein the usage data specifies a permitted number of uses.   23. A DVD system that communicates with a requester network device over a network according to claim 22, wherein the usage data specifies an allowed usage period.   16. The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 15, wherein the control means communicates with the network wirelessly.   16. The DVD system that communicates with a requester network device over a network according to claim 15, wherein the DVD system communicates with the network over a medium.   16. The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 15, wherein the requester network device comprises a hard disk drive (HDD) system.   28. A network-connected DVD / HDD system comprising the DVD system according to claim 27, further comprising the HDD system and the network. A method for operating a digital versatile disc (DVD) system that communicates with a requester network device over a network, comprising:
Storing content in non-volatile memory;
Selectively receiving a request for content from the requester network device;
Determine local / remote status,
Sending the requested content if the requester network device has a local status; and not sending the requested content if the requester network device has a remote status;
A method for operating a DVD system that communicates with a requester network device over a network.   30. A method for operating a DVD system in communication with a requester network device over a network, further comprising: requesting a key from the requester network device prior to transmitting the requested content.   31. Operating the DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 30, further comprising: after sending the key request, determining a time required to receive the key from the requester network device. How to make it.   32. The DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network according to claim 31, further comprising transmitting the requested content to the requester network device if the key is received within a predetermined period of time. How to get it to work.   35. The method for operating a DVD system that communicates with a requester network device over a network, further comprising setting the predetermined period approximately equal to a two-hop period.   35. The method for operating a DVD system in communication with a requester network device over a network according to claim 32, further comprising setting the predetermined period approximately equal to a single hop period.   33. Operating a DVD system for communicating with a requester network device over a network, further comprising encrypting the requested content before sending the requested content to the requester network device. Way for.   30. The method for operating a DVD system in communication with a requester network device over a network, further comprising including usage data in the requested content transmitted to the requester network device.   38. A method for operating a DVD system in communication with a requester network device over a network according to claim 36, wherein the usage data specifies an allowed number of uses.   37. A method for operating a DVD system in communication with a requester network device over a network according to claim 36, wherein the usage data specifies an allowed usage period.

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